Giant Contend
Medium demand · 0 active listings
Good points
- Outstanding value for money, often hundreds less than equivalent rivals
- Proper road bike geometry that does not compromise on handling
- AR version takes wide tyres and has disc brakes for UK conditions
- Simple, low maintenance design with standard components
- Giant dealer network for support and sizing advice
Things to consider
- Aluminium ride quality is firm on rough roads
- Base models come with rim brakes which are less effective in the wet
- You will outgrow it if you get serious about road cycling
- Wheel and component upgrades quickly exceed the value of the bike
Giant Contend buying guide
The Contend is Giant's entry level road bike and it is one of the best first road bikes you can buy. It is the Giant equivalent of the Specialized Allez or Trek Domane AL, an aluminium road bike with proper geometry and sensible spec that does not cut corners where it matters. Giant's manufacturing scale means the Contend typically includes better components than rivals at the same price.
The Contend comes in several versions. The base model is a straightforward aluminium road bike. The Contend AR adds wider tyre clearance, disc brakes, and a more relaxed geometry that makes it almost a light gravel bike. Both versions use Giant's proven aluminium frame technology and ride well for the money.
With an average used price around £660, the Contend is remarkably affordable on the secondhand market. Most sit between £430 and £930, making it accessible for riders on tight budgets.
What it's like to ride
For the money, the Contend rides well. The aluminium frame is responsive enough to feel sporty and the geometry puts you in a comfortable but efficient position. It is not going to match a carbon bike for smoothness or a race bike for stiffness, but that is not the point. The Contend gets you on the road with a bike that handles properly.
The AR version with wider tyres and disc brakes is noticeably more versatile. It handles rough roads, towpaths, and light gravel without complaint. The standard Contend with rim brakes is lighter and simpler but less suitable for UK winter riding. Both versions are easy to live with and simple to maintain.
Who it's for
New road cyclists who want a proper bike without spending a fortune. Commuters who want something that rides well and is tough enough for daily use. Budget conscious riders who care about value. Riders upgrading from a hybrid who want their first drop bar bike.
Giant Contend, key things to know
- The Contend AR with disc brakes is the one to get for UK riding. The wet weather stopping power alone justifies the price difference
- Check for frame dents on the downtube and chainstays. Minor dents in aluminium are usually cosmetic
- Look at the groupset. Shimano Claris is basic but functional. Sora and Tiagra are noticeably better
- Used Contends are very cheap. Do not spend more on upgrades than the bike cost
- Make sure the wheels spin true and the bearings are smooth. Budget wheels are the first thing to wear on cheap bikes
Cyclesite Fair Value Range
Based on current UK market prices for this model
Trade-in vs Private Sale
Shop trade-in
£228
Private sale
£350
You save
£122 (54% more)
Value by Condition
Estimated market value based on current UK market prices for this model.
Excellent
Like new, minimal signs of use
£350
£300 to £450
Good
Normal wear, fully functional
£298
£255 to £383
Fair
Visible wear, may need minor work
£228
£195 to £293
Poor
Significant wear, needs repairs
£140
£120 to £180
Based on real UK market prices, updated continuously as the market moves.
See the full Giant Contend valuation, depreciation and price history
Similar Giant models
Buying a used Giant Contend?
Check the frame number before you pay. On a Giant it is not always in the obvious place, and a bike with no readable number is a bike you cannot verify.
What's your Contend worth?
Get an instant valuation based on real market data, condition, year, and current demand.
Giant Contend Resale Value & Market Data
The Giant Contend has a current fair market value of £300-£450 based on current UK market prices for this model. At the mid-point of £350, this places the Contend in the medium-demand segment of the used market.
Giant Contend Value by Condition
Condition has a significant impact on resale value. An excellent-condition Contend commands around £350, while good condition drops to £298 and fair condition to £228. These figures update as Cyclesite tracks new sales across the UK.
Sell Your Contend
Selling privately on Cyclesite typically nets £122 more than a shop trade-in (54% difference). With 0 active listings and medium demand, now is a reasonable time to list.